If you want to become an ESL teacher, the requirements vary from country to country, but there are some basic requirements. If you want to teach English abroad, you must be at least 18 years of age. Some programs require teachers to be 21 years or older. In addition, most programs require teachers to have earned a high school diploma.

One of the perks of teaching in another country is the pay. In some Middle Eastern countries you can earn as much as $70,000 a year teaching English. Many people find work in Japan, China and parts of Korea, where the typical salary peaks at around $3,500 a month. You can even find work as a private English tutor, which allows you to determine your own salary range.

Working with a Placement Agency

Another reason for getting into ESL and EFL teaching is health insurance. If you're an out of work teacher here in the United States, you know how difficult day to day living can be without basic insurance coverage. Most international teaching opportunities offer health benefits for the term of your employment. This is especially beneficial to young families who need health coverage for everything from colds and flus to broken bones and other medical emergencies.

One of the best ways to ensure you find work overseas is to work with a ESL placement or recruitment company. Many of these companies work directly with English language programs around the world to find you the best possible working conditions, salary, and terms of employment. Most English schools require teachers to sign official contracts that spell out everything from length of employment to paid holidays, medical insurance benefits, and even lesson plans or methodology. The right placement company will review your contract to ensure the best possible terms of employment.